Tip #248: Install low-flow or adjustable showerheads

Installing low-flow or adjustable showerheads can also save you a lot of money over the years. It will also save thousands of gallons of water over time. Low-flow showerheads cost about the same as others. Your savings will be seen in your water bills and your water heating cost. A 1992 law requires that showerheads installed after that date produce a maximum of 2.5 gallons of water per minute. Prior to 1992, most showerheads produced about 5 gallons per minute. The older your showerheads, the more you will save by replacing them. You can now buy low-flow showerheads that produce only about 1 gallon per minute. Low-flow showerheads still provide an enjoyable and adequate shower. If we consider a family of 4 and each person takes a 10 minute shower each day, switching from an older 5-gallon-per minute showerhead to a 2.5 gallon-per-minute showerhead will save 36,500 gallons per year. Switching from a 5-gallon-per-minute showerhead to a 1-gallon-per-minute showerhead will save more than 58,000 gallons per year.